Nov. 10, 2009
Today with the first meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board (OHPB), Oregon took the next step in its health reform movement to lower costs, increase quality and access, and improve the health of all Oregonians.
The nine-member citizen board that met today serves as the policy-making and advisory body for the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the new agency created by the 2009 Legislature. The Health Authority combines state health organizations and divisions - from the Division of Medical Assistance Programs (Medicaid) to the Public Employees Benefit Board - as one agency. The board was appointed by Governor Ted Kulongoski and approved by the Oregon Senate in October.
"While the eyes of the nation are focusing on the health care debate in Congress, Oregon will continue to lead with changes on a state level," says Gov. Kulongoski. "Ultimately creating policies and programs that improve the health of Oregonians is going to come down to state innovation and this board and agency will be leading the way."
Among the first actions the board will focus on is how to coordinate the purchasing power of the state of Oregon to lower costs and provide leadership for quality improvements both for the state and for the private market.
"The new Oregon Health Authority purchases health care for a substantial share of Oregon's market," says Dr. Bruce Goldberg, director designee of the Oregon Health Authority. "With that kind of purchasing power we can have a real impact."
In addition, the OHPB will create a business plan for an Oregon Health Insurance Exchange which would allow Oregonians and their families to buy and own the health coverage they want at a competitive price. This opportunity would give individuals and families access to more choice and increased flexibility in offering health benefits and lower prices in the individual coverage market. This work will solidify Oregon as an innovator and leader in health care reform.
OHPB also will provide leadership on ways to include prevention in the health care equation by focusing efforts on reducing diseases such as diabetes and heart disease that are often preventable by lifestyle choices. The Health Authority and the board will also be addressing incentives for payments to health care providers for prevention and comprehensive management of chronic diseases, quality outcomes, issues of access to health care in rural Oregon, health care workforce development, and electronic health care records, among other things.
"The ultimate goal is to make sure everyone in Oregon has access to quality, affordable health care and that we improve the health of all Oregonians," says OHPB chairman Eric Parsons. "We will be addressing that in every way we can."
In addition to creating the Oregon Health Authority, the Governor and the Legislature made a leap forward in improving access to health care with the passage of the Healthy Kids plan and by providing coverage to 35,000 additional low-income adults on the Oregon Health Plan. Now the Oregon Health Authority will look at the entire health system and how it can be improved for everyone.
Efforts to reform health care in Oregon began in 2007 with the establishment of the Oregon Health Fund Board (OHFB). This board developed a comprehensive plan to contain health care costs, address quality issues and ensure access to all Oregonians. The newly appointed Oregon Health Policy Board (OHPB) will carry out the plan.
For more information about the Oregon Health Authority go to:
http://www.oregon.gov/OHA/index.shtml.
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Oregon Health Policy Board
November 2009
Member name
Eric E. Parsons (chair)
Standard Insurance Company (retired)
Portland, Oregon
Lillian M. Shirley (vice-chair)
Multnomah County Health Department
Portland, Oregon
Michael J. Bonetto
Cascade Healthcare Community, Inc.
Bend, Oregon
Eileen S. Brady
Co-Owner New Seasons
Portland, Oregon
Carlos J. Crespo
PSU- School of Community Health
Portland, Oregon
Felisa A. Higgins
SEIU Local 49
Portland, Oregon
Dr. Charles E. Hofmann, MD, FACP
Baker City, Oregon
Joe E. Robertson MD
Oregon Health Sciences University
Portland, Oregon
Nina L. Werner
Ornelas Enterprises Inc.
Hillsboro, Oregon
November 10, 2009
Since Sept. 1, 2009, 1,015 people have been hospitalized in Oregon with influenza-like illness; 33 people in have died in 12 Oregon counties.
People who are at high risk for severe illness and complications from the flu should seek medical advice as soon flu symptoms appear. Antiviral therapy early in an influenza-like illness may reduce the severity of the symptoms and additional complications.
"People in high-risk groups such as pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions should talk to their health care provider as soon as they develop symptoms, especially fever," says Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., Oregon public health director.
Private drug manufacturers are steadily shipping the H1N1 influenza vaccine into Oregon, with larger shipments arriving each week. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has allocated another 139,400 doses expected by Friday, Nov. 13, bringing the cumulative total to enough doses to vaccinate 24 percent of the priority group.
The priority group includes population groups designated by the CDC: pregnant women, children and young people aged 6 months to 24 years, health care providers, people caring for infants under 6 months, and people with underlying health conditions. Oregon added front line law enforcement and safety workers to the priority group to ensure that we have adequate public safety workers to keep Oregonians safe.
Kohn says that people in the priority group, especially those with underlying health conditions, are encouraged to find the vaccine. "Local heath departments are balancing the dose allocation to both public clinics and private health care providers to ensure equal access to the vaccine," says Kohn.
Flu clinics operate locally with the assistance of county public health departments. The Oregon Public Health Division surveys the counties on a regular basis and keeps information current at www.flu.oregon.gov and the Oregon Public Health flu hotline of 1-800-978-3040.
See the attached graphics for a visual of hospitalizations/deaths and vaccine delivery in Oregon. For more information on H1N1 flu and vaccines, call the Oregon Public Health Flu Hotline at 1-800-978-3040 or visit www.flu.oregon.gov
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Oregon Public Health Division Mission: To protect and promote the health of all the people of Oregon.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) will graduate its 315th Basic Police Class on November 13, 2009 at 1100 in the Hall of Heroes at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem. Chief Rosanne Sizer of the Portland Police Bureau will be the guest speaker.
The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, elder abuse, drug recognition, and many other subjects.
* Basic Police Class 315 Graduates *
Allen, Daniel - Roseburg Police Department
Andonian, Mihran - Portland Police Bureau
Berland, Michael - Oregon State Police
Boivin, Jeffrey - Washington County Sheriff's Office
Brackett, Johnathan - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Brown, Steven - Oregon City Police Department
Burks, Ryan - Eugene Police Department
Claassen, Douglas - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Clausen, Brandon - Lake Oswego Police Department
Crabtree, Robb - Portland Police Bureau
Currier, Michael - Portland Police Bureau
Dewey, Timothy - Gresham Police Department
Dillon, Sean - Eugene Police Department
Gahan, Jay - Portland Police Bureau
Glem, Matthew - Hillsboro Police Department
Greenlee, Michael - Portland Police Bureau
Hawley, Mark - Gresham Police Department
Hornstein, Jack - Portland Police Bureau
Hunt, Tony - Molalla Police Department
Jett, Bradley - Portland Police Bureau
Johnson, Richard - Malheur County Sheriff's Office
Luty, Angela - Portland Police Bureau
Matica, Adrian - Portland Police Bureau
Metscher, Jeffrey - Gresham Police Department
Neece, Jonathan - Oregon City Police Department
Pavel, Benjamin - Portland Police Bureau
Payton, Sarah - Portland Police Bureau
Powell, Brian - Portland Police Bureau
Raglione, John - Portland Police Bureau
Ridgely, Ariana - Portland Police Bureau
Rightnour, Robert - Medford Police Department
Rohlf, Charles - Oregon State Police
Rydell, Ashley - Medford Police Department
Sarmento, Eric - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Sherwin, Paul - Washington County Sheriff's Office
Smith, Grant - Portland Police Bureau
Sorensen, Todd - Portland Police Bureau
Wadsworth, Brandt - Oregon City Police Department
Walker, Peter - Polk County Sheriff's Office
Wetherbee, William - Sandy Police Department
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 212 acres in Salem. John Minnis serves as the Director, and Sheriff Andy Bentz of Malhuer County serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for training and certification of city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers. DPSST provides training to more than 20,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.
An Oregon State Police traffic stop followed by an investigation involving detectives from the OSP Drug Enforcement (DES) and Criminal Investigations Division sections (DES), with the assistance of Linn County Sheriff's Office and Sweet Home Police Department, has led to the arrest of a Sweet Home-area man on multiple drug and theft charges, as well as the recovery of multiple firearms at his home. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are anticipated.
On October 28, 2009 at approximately 8:20 a.m. OSP Major Richard Evans was southbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 266 in an unmarked OSP vehicle when he stopped a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado for driving recklessly at speeds exceeding 100 mph. During contact with the driver, identified as JUSTIN EDWARD EGNER, age 34, from Sweet Home, it was learned he was wanted on two outstanding misdemeanor warrants out of Linn County.
After also seeing an SKS-style rifle tucked between the front passenger seat and the center console, Major Evans requested additional OSP assistance. An OSP senior trooper and recruit trooper arrived to assist and EGNER was arrested without incident for the two outstanding warrants. He was later lodged in Marion County Jail.
Subsequent investigation and search warrants revealed inside the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado were ten (10) firearms, including three (3) loaded handguns and several guns that were confirmed stolen. Troopers also found small amounts of cocaine, amphetamines, marijuana, over $7800.00 in cash, other evidence and miscellaneous stolen property.
With the assistance of Linn County Sheriff's Office and Sweet Home Police Department, OSP DES detectives and troopers executed a search warrant at EGNER's Sweet Home residence where they found twenty-five (25) additional firearms, including several more stolen guns, and additional stolen property including a gun safe, cocaine, and over 1 1/2 lbs. of marijuana.
EGNER was transferred to Linn County jail on his outstanding warrants and also charged with:
* Possession of Controlled Substance - Cocaine
* Possession of Controlled Substance - Marijuana
* Theft by Receiving (3 counts)
* Reckless Driving
He was also cited for Driving While Suspended, Exceeding the Speed Limit - 100 mph in 65 mph speed zone, and Driving Uninsured.
Additional charges are pending.
Photograph Source:
Linn County Sheriff's Office - EGNER Photo
Oregon State Police - Firearm Photos
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife troopers in southern Oregon are encouraging people to report poaching activity, especially now that most rifle deer hunting seasons are ending and many large bucks are illegally killed in the following days.
"Our troopers are actively pursuing their game of choice, and our quarry is the poacher," said Sergeant Kirk Meyer from the OSP Fish & Wildlife Division at the Central Point office.
Last week, OSP Fish & Wildlife Division troopers received information of a large 4X4 buck that was shot at a local area golf course. An investigation revealed that the large buck had been seen in the area for weeks until it was unlawfully killed by a man who did not have a deer tag. The month long deer hunting season was winding down with just a few days to go when the large buck was shot.
State Police troopers seized the carcass from a 39-year old Rogue River man who illegally tagged it with his tag. The 67-year old Medford man who shot it wanted the head for a taxidermy mount. He tagged it with the tag he purchased after killing it.
"Our investigation found that this person took advantage of a new rule allowing someone to purchase a tag after the season opened. Despite signing a statement swearing he had not yet hunted for the game for which the tag was purchased, he had already killed the deer," said Meyer.
Misdemeanor charges for TAKING DEER WITHOUT A DEER TAG, FALSE APPLICATION FOR A DEER TAG and LOANING A DEER TAG are pending against both men. (Photo #1 is related to this case)
In a second incident, troopers received information this week of some men on ATVs on a mountainside near Central Point in an area where deer poaching has previously been reported. A trooper was in the area looking for the men when he saw them coming down the mountain on ATVs and one of them was hauling a dead buck. The deer hunting season had ended last Friday, except for youth hunters with a tag who were allowed to hunt through the weekend.
With the help of responding troopers, the three men were found inside a shed at a Central Point home. The freshly killed buck was hanging in the shed and they were skinning it. There were two other bucks also found hanging in the shed, and a third was found already butchered inside a freezer in the home. The four bucks and two rifles were seized. (Photo #2 is related to this case)
Cited to appear in Jackson County Circuit Court related to the second incident were:
* ROBERT LUND, age 37, from Central Point, for Exceeding the Bag Limit - Deer and Unlawful Possession of Deer
* TIMOTHY GEYER, age 31, from Central Point, for Taking Deer Closed Season
* ROBERT OCH, age 43, from Central Point, for Aiding in a Wildlife Crime - Taking Deer Closed Season
As most rifle deer hunting seasons have ended, Sergeant Meyer stressed the importance to check the 2009 Oregon big game regulations for information about late hunting seasons still to come for muzzle loaders and bow hunters. Anyone with information about possible poaching activity in their area is asked to call the statewide TIP (Turn in Poacher) Hotline at 1-800-452-7888.
Photograph Source: Oregon State Police
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
On Monday, November 9, 2009, at about 7:00 p.m., the Albany Police Department responded to the Rite Aid Pharmacy located at 1235 SE Waverly Drive on the report of an armed robbery. A Rite Aid Pharmacy employee reported the pharmacy had been robbed, and the suspect left the store with narcotics.
A pharmacy employee reported that just prior to 7:00 p.m., a female suspect approached the pharmacy counter, displayed a black semi-automatic handgun, and demanded the narcotic, Oxycontin. The employee complied with the demand and gave the female suspect over $5,000 worth of Oxycontin, after which time the female suspect fled from the store.
Video surveillance shows the suspect as a female adult, about 5'8" in height, with a stocky build, and brown hair. She was wearing a dark colored stocking cap and a brown sweatshirt with the hood pulled up. After the female suspect demanded the Oxycontin, the surveillance video shows she pulled up a dark colored bandana to cover her face.
Anyone with information on this robbery is asked to call the Albany Police Department at 541-917-7680.
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The Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission will meet Nov. 19 at The Loft at the Red Building, 20 Basin Street, in Astoria. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m.
A complete meeting agenda is posted at www.oregon.gov/OPRD/commission_packet.shtml.
The commission has specific authority to establish policy and adopt rules for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, acquire property for state parks, and set fees for the use of park facilities. Its seven members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate.
The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by calling 503-986-0655. ###
(EDITORS NOTE: Meeting agenda attached for your convenience.)
MONMOUTH - Western Oregon University, a mid-sized university in the Willamette Valley, has topped last year's enrollment record with 5,654 students, an increase of 305 students from last year. WOU credits a continued focus on serving Oregon's students who comprise 83 percent of the university's student population.
WOU saw 1,476 new students this year, with 967 freshmen and 509 transfer students. Out of the freshman, 831 are from Oregon and most of the remaining students are from Washington, Hawaii, Alaska and California.
The university also had a major increase in its graduate student population, approximately 20 percent, due to the new master's degree in history and expanded graduate programs in teaching and information technology.
The Western Tuition Promise has been a driving factor in increased enrollment, as it guarantees a set tuition rate for incoming undergraduates during their four years. With the bad economy this guarantee provides students and their families meaningful security in planning for college expenses.
The increased enrollment has required some change to campus, including the construction of a new live-learn residence hall. This residence hall, slated to open in time for students return in fall 2010, will be the nation's first LEED platinum certified full-sized residence hall. A health and wellness facility, featuring a recreation center, will open in winter term of 2011. This includes renovations to the existing Old P.E. building and additional classroom and athletic spaces.
"Western Oregon University is the most popular mid-sized four-year college for Oregonians to attend," said Associate Provost David Mc Donald. "Initiatives like the Western Tuition Promise, and our proactive and effective retention initiatives, make WOU a very popular choice for students and families. The campus commitment to student success pays off as students are more likely to graduate."
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Two Oregon State Police (OSP) recruit troopers assigned at offices in Springfield and La Grande will graduate Friday, November 13th, along with 38 other county and city recruit officers from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) basic police training program.
Superintendent Timothy McLain noted the Department is continuing to move forward with hiring new recruit troopers to fill current vacancies with the support of Governor Ted Kulongoski and legislative leadership during the 2007 and 2009 legislative sessions. "Our recruitment and training section personnel have worked hard during the last two years to hire and train newly authorized troopers as we continue on our quest to resume 24-hour patrol coverage at key locations around the state," said McLain.
Last December, the OSP Central Point Area Command office was the first to return to around-the-clock coverage. Other OSP office locations in Portland, Albany, Salem, Springfield and Bend have also recently returned to 24 hour coverage with other offices getting closer in the coming months.
The two OSP recruit troopers join 31 city police and 7 county sheriff graduating recruit officers during Friday's 11:00 a.m. ceremony in front of family and friends. They will report to assignments at the following OSP worksites:
* La Grande Area Command - Recruit Charles Rohlf, age 25
* Springfield Area Command - Recruit Michael Berland, age 33
Starting January 2007, OSP recruit trooper training has included both OSP-specific training unique to the Department and the 16-week DPSST training program with newly hired city and county officers at the Oregon Public Safety Academy. Following graduation, the OSP recruit troopers also go through a two to three month field training program with an OSP trooper.
Anyone interested in potential future career opportunities as an Oregon State Police Trooper may obtain more information on the OSP recruiting website at www.OSPTrooper.com .
The Basic Police Class No. 315 graduation ceremony marks the completion of the fifteenth fully-integrated basic police class facilitated by DPSST - which provides statutorily-required basic training to newly-hired city police officers, county sheriff's deputies and OSP troopers. It will take place at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Highway, in Salem.
Questions regarding DPSST can be directed to DPSST Deputy Director Eriks Gabliks at (503) 378-2332.
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The Oregon State Police is a full-service public safety agency providing diverse services to the citizens of Oregon. Our mission is to enhance livability and safety by protecting the people, property, and natural resources of the state. To realize our vision and accomplish our mission our objectives are to BE THERE (be ready and able to respond to the increasing needs of Oregonians); PREVENT HARM (engage in vigilant enforcement of laws and regulations while making Oregon's roadways safe and reducing our citizen's exposure to crime, fire and disasters); and, SUPPORT OREGON COMMUNITIES (providing specialized services and assistance throughout Oregon in support of the statewide public safety infrastructure).
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Six people are facing charges following a recent Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop in southern Oregon that led to a second significant marijuana seizure at a confirmed registered address for growing marijuana under the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program. OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives and the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team subsequently seized approximately 220 lbs. of unlawfully possessed marijuana, firearms, ballistic vests, ammunition and over $10,000 cash associated with the ongoing investigation.
This investigation started with a traffic stop on November 3, 2009 when an OSP trooper stopped a vehicle displaying California license plates northbound on Interstate 5 near Ashland for a traffic violation. Subsequent investigation by the trooper led to the male driver admitting to being enroute to an outdoor marijuana growing operation in Josephine County with $9,100 cash to buy 3 lbs. of marijuana. Charges may be pending against the driver who was not arrested at the time.
OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives and the RADE team were contacted for assistance and later that date executed a search warrant on Dreamhill Drive in the Applegate area of Josephine County. Detectives found evidence reflecting a large scale marijuana growing operation capable of producing hundreds of pounds of marijuana. Also found at the location was approximately 240 lbs. of marijuana, including multiple pounds pre-packaged for sale; twelve firearms (including assault rifles); large amound of ammunition; two ballistic vests; and, approximately $1,100 cash.
Detectives also found three people inside the residence trimming marijuana for later distribution. The three people did not live at the residence and were identified as AARON WEBB, age 41; COURTNEY ANTRIM-WEBB, age 36; and, RODNEY CAZEL, age 44, all from California.
While detectives were at the residence, arriving in a Cadillac Escalade were the two unemployed homeowners identified as DARREN APPLEGATE, age 41, and LAUREL APPLEGATE, age 41. They were confirmed as registered growers under the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP) and admitted they were growing for eleven "patients." DARREN and LAUREL APPLEGATE were both lodged in Josephine County Jail on multiple charges. They were released pending an appearance in Josephine County Circuit Court.
The other three listed individuals, and a fourth person not named, are also facing felony charges in Josephine County Circuit Court.
The legal amount of usable marijuana that can be possessed by registered growers under the OMMP for 11 patients would total 16.5 pounds. The additional over 220 pounds of marijuana seized from the residence had a conservative estimated value of $556,250.
In late October, another OSP traffic stop led to a RADE team investigation and the seizure of over 200 pounds of marijuana in Josephine County. Two of the three people were confirmed registered growers under the OMMP and they were charged in relation to that ongoing investigation. Estimated value of the seized marijuana in this incident was approximately $450,000.
RADE is an interagency narcotics team comprised of personnel from the Grants Pass Department of Public Safety, Oregon State Police Drug Enforcement Section, Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Josephine County District Attorney's Office, and the Josephine County Community Corrections. Also assisting in this investigation were detectives from the Grants Pass Department of Public Safety and troopers from the Oregon State Police Drug Detection Canine program.
Anyone with information regarding suspicious drug activity or marijuana growing operations in Josephine County is encouraged to call the RADE tip line at (541) 955-6970.
Photograph Sources:
Scene Photo - Oregon State Police
APPLEGATE Photos - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
November 10, 2009
Oregon Disabilities Commission Employed Persons with Disabilities Subcommittee to meet November 16
Who: Oregon Disabilities Commission
What: Employed Persons with Disabilities (EPD) Subcommittee Meeting
When: Monday, November 16, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Barbara Roberts Human Services Building
500 Summer St. NE, Salem OR, Conference Room 166
Agenda: Items include call to order; discussion: asset portability topic; schedule other topics for upcoming meetings; other items; adjourn.
The agenda is posted on the Oregon Disabilities Commission Web site.
The Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) is a Governor-appointed commission housed in the Department of Human Services (DHS). The commission is charged by state statute to advise the Governor, the Legislature and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving full economic, social, legal and political equity for individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations should call DHS at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.
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November 10, 2009
The majority of Oregon bars and bowling centers are in compliance with the expanded Smokefree Workplace Law, according to a new study. The law, which took effect Jan. 1, 2009, prohibits smoking in indoor workplaces including bars, bowling centers and bingo halls, and creates a 10-foot smokefree zone around doors, windows and ventilation systems in all buildings open to the public.
The study, conducted by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) Tobacco Prevention and Education Program, included a random sample of Oregon bars and bowling centers and found that all observed establishments were smokefree indoors. Almost three quarters had signs posted to inform employees and customers of the law's requirements.
"The survey confirms that Oregon has made a smooth transition to smokefree and that the law is effectively protecting Oregonians from secondhand smoke," said Dr. Katrina Hedberg, interim state epidemiologist for the state Public Health Division. "We applaud Oregon bars and businesses for doing their part."
In addition to protecting workers and customers from secondhand smoke exposure, the law is helping people quit. Since January, nearly one in 10 callers to the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line reported that they were motivated to quit smoking because of the new law.
In Oregon and across the country, there is additional evidence that smokefree policies are good for business as well as for people:
* An American Heart Association study shows that one year after passing smoking bans, communities in North America and Europe had 17 percent fewer heart attacks compared to communities without smoking restrictions, and the number of heart attacks kept decreasing with time.
* Oregon bingo receipts have increased since the law took effect.
* According to the U.S. Surgeon General's 2006 report, "The Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Secondhand Smoke," smokefree policies do not cause a decline in business for restaurants and bars, but do lead to a substantial decline in exposure to secondhand smoke and decreased respiratory symptoms in workers.
To ensure that Oregon's law realizes these benefits, DHS continues to work with businesses on specific issues. For example, the study found that five percent of bars statewide had enclosed outdoor smoking structures that are not in compliance with the law. "With the winter rains beginning, it's important for businesses to remember that smoking is not permitted in any structure with a ceiling and three or more permanent or temporary walls," Dr. Hedberg said. Temporary walls include walls constructed of plastic, mesh or other screening materials, slats, louvered blinds, fabric, blankets or other non-permanent material, according to the law.
Additionally, while the majority of bars had posted signs, only one in five had displayed all required signage. Violations of the 10-foot rule were more common among bars without all required signage. Signs, including a new version reminding patrons not to leave cigarette litter on the ground, are available at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/smokefree/thelaw.shtml or 1-888-412-1701.
Although the Smokefree Workplace Law and the high level of compliance are wins for the tobacco prevention community, there is still more work to be done. Seventeen percent of Oregonians smoke, and 90 percent of them started smoking before they turned 18 years old. Every day, 48 children smoke their first cigarette in Oregon; a year later, 20 will still be smoking.
Background and additional information
Passed by the Oregon Legislature in 2007 and implemented January 1, 2009, the law expands the number of workplaces required to be smokefree to include bars, bowling centers and bingo halls; 75 percent of hotel and motel rooms; and all employee breakrooms. It also prohibits smoking or the presence of ashtrays within 10 feet of any entrance, exit, window or ventilation intake.
Visit http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/tobacco/pubs.shtml to read the full report.
For more information about how to quit tobacco, visit http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/tobacco/oregonquitline.shtml.
For more information about the law and to access free signs and resources, visit http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/smokefree/thelaw.shtml.
About TPEP
The Oregon Tobacco Prevention and Education Program works with local health
departments, tribes, schools and community organizations to deliver a comprehensive tobacco prevention program to all Oregon residents. These program activities are based on evidence-based strategies to reduce and prevent tobacco use. For more information, visit http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/tobacco/.
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(Salem) - The Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) recently fined Providence Health Plans $30,000 for mishandling nearly 7,000 claims.
"In this tough economy, with health care costs continuing to rise, it is especially important to hold insurers accountable to ensure consumers receive the benefits they pay for," said Insurance Division Administrator Teresa Miller.
Providence contracts with a claims administrator to process many of its claims. As part of the company's procedure, members are supposed to send their claims to the claims administrator. Over a two-year period, about 7,000 claims were sent to Providence, instead of the claims administrator. Providence sent a confusing response to these members. While the company told its members to resend their claims to a claims administrator, it also indicated that the claims were not covered. In reality, the claims hadn't yet been reviewed.
Because of the confusion that resulted from Providence's communication, many members did not send their claims to the claims administrator. After the state began investigating, Providence determined that 2,583 of the nearly 7,000 claims had not been resent. In the end, Providence paid approximately $53,500 to consumers who had submitted valid claims from mid-2006 to mid-2008. The company also changed its procedures to ensure the situation does not happen again.
State law prohibits insurers from refusing to pay claims without conducting a reasonable investigation, which was the basis for the fine.
The department found out about the mishandled claims because of a complaint to its Insurance Division Consumer Advocacy Unit.
"Thanks to one consumer's complaint, many others were able to recover the benefits they were entitled to as part of their health plan," Miller said.
Providence is among the largest health insurers in Oregon with roughly 9 percent of premiums in 2007, the last year for which data is available.
The Department of Consumer and Business Services insurance advocates can be reached at 888-877-4894. The department's enforcement order against Providence can be found at: http://www.cbs.state.or.us/ins/admin_actions/actions_2009/insurer_2009/m....
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The Insurance Division is part of the Department of Consumer & Business Services. For more information, visit www.insurance.oregon.gov. The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov.
Interstate 5 was briefly closed in both directions Monday afternoon when a large Cottonwood tree toppled over, snapping off a power pole causing power lines to fall across the freeway lanes.
On November 9, 2009 at approximately 12:06 p.m. Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Rick Hamilton was dispatched to reports of downed power lines across Interstate 5 northbound lanes near milepost 181 at the River Drive overpass south of Creswell. Even after the power lines landed on the freeway lanes, traffic continued to drive over the power lines until traffic was stopped to determine if the lines were live.
Within five minutes one of the northbound lanes was opened and all lanes ere opened 20 minutes later.
The tree fell from the west side of the freeway and reportedly took out power to the local community at that side of the freeway. Questions regarding the power outage should be directed to Pacific Power and Light or Eugene Public Utility District.
The attached photos were taken after the power lines were removed from the travel portion of the freeway between Creswell and Cottage Grove.
Source: Oregon State Police
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
SALEM, OR- Applications for the 2009 Governor's Sustainability Awards are now being accepted by Business Oregon on behalf of the Governor and the Oregon Sustainability Board.
Oregonians have always put great value on the long-term health of the environment in which they live, work and play, and therefore take a long-term view when making investments in economic development. Sustainability is an integrated concept in the strategic planning of most Oregon organizations and companies, but some are truly moving to the head of the pack. Governor Ted Kulongoski created the Sustainability Awards to recognize those outstanding efforts.
The Governor's Sustainability Awards are intended to promote and advance the inclusion of sustainable practices in government and the private sector. Any private, public, or non-profit organization is eligible to apply. Awards will be given based on merit, but organizations may be grouped by size and/or type in order to make comparing applicants more efficient and appropriate.
Winners must show a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond compliance with regulatory requirements. Winners will be innovators in their fields and show that becoming more sustainable is not in conflict with achieving the organization's core mission, whatever that may be. The Awards broadly defines sustainable practices as those that strive to optimize an organization's financial, environmental and social performance.
Last year's winners were Sokol Blosser Winery, Full Sail Brewing, Klamath Brewing, New Seasons Market, ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia and the Eugene "08 Olympic Trial Committee.
For more information, a downloadable application or to nominate a business, please visit: http://www.oregon4biz.com/2009-Sustainability-Awards.php. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., Monday, November 30, 2009. Applicants should expect a response approximately one month after the deadline.
For additional information, please contact Business Oregon's Mark Brady at 503.229.5223 or mark.brady@biz.state.or.us.
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The Oregon Business Development Department works to create, retain, expand and attract businesses that provide sustainable, living-wage jobs for Oregonians through public-private partnerships, leveraged funding, and support of economic opportunities for Oregon companies and entrepreneurs. Visit www.oregon4biz.com for more information on doing business in Oregon.
Following a one year investigation, two Lincoln City residents were arrested last week by detectives from the Lincoln Interagency Narcotics Team (LINT) during the execution of a search warrant at a Lincoln City residence. LINT detectives were assisted by Lincoln City Police Department and a Newport Police Department drug detection canine team.
On November 4, 2009 LINT detectives served the search warrant at 2547 NE Holmes Road and subsequently arrested SAYLOR JIM PEARSON, age 41, and CHARLENE LYNN FOSTER, age 25, both from Lincoln City. During the residence search detectives recovered a quantity of suspected Methamphetamine, scales, material used to package narcotics, drug paraphernalia and evidence documenting drug transactions.
Detectives also found within the residence and inside a storage unit rented by PEARSON stolen property previously reported to police and other property later discovered to be stolen.
PEARSON was transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged on the following charges:
* Unlawful Possession, Delivery and Manufacture of Controlled Substances - Methamphetamine
* Child Neglect in the First Degree
* Burglary in the First Degree
* Burglary in the Second Degree
* Theft in the First Degree
* Theft in the Second Degree
FOSTER was also transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances - Methamphetamine.
This search warrant service was the result of an over one year investigation into PEARSON's activities by LINT detectives. Investigators believe that although the investigation is continuing, the service of this warrant should provide some relief to neighborhood residents who have been plagued with narcotics related traffic and other incidents for several months.
The LINT team is comprised of members from the Oregon State Police, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, and the Lincoln County District Attorney's Office.
No photographs available for this release.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Nov. 11 - No school or child care Veteran's Day Parade at 11:00 am
Nov. 23-25 No school or child care for elementary students;
Preschool will be in session with afternoon child care
Nov. 26-27 No school No child care - Thanksgiving break
SALEM-Oregon House Speaker Dave Hunt (D-Clackamas County) will discuss strengthening public education at the Oregon School Boards Association's annual convention this week in Portland.
To receive a media badge:
* In advance: Contact Tanya Gross.
* When you arrive: Check in at the convention registration table in Lower Lobby 1.
Other speakers include nationally-known educators and researchers, Dr. Crystal Kuykendall and Dr. Douglas Reeves. Kuykendall explores the roots of student rage and describes strategies for disciplining, motivating and instilling hope in these students. Reeves offers new research findings to help education leaders improve student achievement despite difficult challenges.
All events will be at the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront, 1401 SW Naito Pkwy. Dates, times and room locations below:
Friday, November 13
* House Speaker Dave Hunt: 8:45 a.m., Salon E and F
* Dr. Crystal Kuykendall: 9:30 a.m., Salon E and F
Saturday, November 14
* Dr. Douglas Reeves: 9:45 a.m., Salon E and F
* Lunch for convention attendees, 12:30 p.m., Lower Level 2, with the following program:
- Remarks by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Susan Castillo
- Announcement of Oregon Superintendent of the Year
- Remarks by Teacher of the Year Donna DuBois
About 800 locally-elected school board members, superintendents, teachers and others from school districts, education service districts, charter schools and community colleges across Oregon are registered to attend.
Oregon State Police (OSP) Drug Enforcement Section will continue the investigation related to the arrest of two Bend residents Saturday morning after over 50 pounds of marijuana was found in a vehicle during an OSP traffic stop east of La Grande.
According to OSP Sergeant Larry Graves, on November 7, 2009 at approximately 10:26 a.m. an OSP senior trooper stopped a rented 2009 Nissan Altima displaying California license plates eastbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 278 after noting the car's speed at 84 mph in a 65 mph speed zone. Contacted during the stop were driver TISHA MAELOU NILES, age 25, and passenger JEFFREY DAVEY STRATTON, age 28, both from Bend.
Subsequent investigation during the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 51 lbs. of marijuana in large bags inside the car's trunk. Another trooper and OSP drug detection canine assisted during the traffic stop and discovery of the estimated $130,000 worth of marijuana.
STRATTON AND NILES were arrested without incident for Unlawful Possession, Distribution and Manufacture of a Controlled Substance - Marijuana. STRATTON was lodged in the Union County Jail. NILES was cited to appear in Union County Circuit Court.
OSP Drug Enforcement Section is continuing the investigation. No additional information will be released.
Photograph Sources:
Marijuana Photo - Oregon State Police
STRATTON Photo - Union County Sheriff's Office
(Photograph of NILES not available for this release)
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
A Utah man died and four others received minor injuries early Sunday morning after their vehicle lost control on black ice and went down a small ravine along eastbound Interstate 84 near Meacham in northeast Oregon. Some of the injured, followed by Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers performed CPR on the victim until he was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical responders.
According to OSP Senior Trooper Jeremy Gunter, on November 8, 2009 at approximately 2:36 a.m. a vehicle driven by RYAN SEAN CAMPBELL, age 28, from Riverton, Utah was eastbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 238 with three other adult occupants and one child. RYAN CAMPBELL encountered an area of black ice and the vehicle began to slide. He attempted to correct the vehicle's path direction but it slid off the roadway, struck a guardrail and traveled down a small ravine.
Passengers were identified as CLARENCE RANDALL CAMPBELL, age 83, and his wife ELNA S. CAMPBELL, age 81, both from South Jordan, Utah; PEGGY L. MAYNES, age 56, from South Jordan; and, a 3 year old boy from Riverton, Utah.
After the crash, some family members performed CPR on CLARENCE CAMPBELL until OSP troopers arrived and resumed CPR efforts. About 30 minutes after OSP started resuscitation efforts, medical personnel arrived and pronounced him deceased.
The other four vehicle occupants were transported by Pendleton Ambulance to St. Anthony's Hospital in Pendleton for treatment of minor injuries. RYAN CAMPBELL, CLARENCE CAMPBELL and the child were all using safety restraints.
OSP troopers from Milton-Freewater, Pendleton and La Grande offices responded to the scene. The investigation indicates speed was not a factor.
Due to icy roadway conditions and multiple crashes in the area, the freeway was closed for approximately 2 hours. ODOT and Umatilla Tribal Police Department also responded and assisted with this crash and other occurring traffic problems.
No photographs available for this release.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###